RYA Under 18 Courses

RYA Under 18 Courses

Under 18 Syllabus

The training scheme for the under 18s is designed to give you the chance to learn in a safe, controlled and fun environment. Over all four stages you will get help and advice to make sure you can do the skills on the course before moving onto the next one. As you progress through the stages you will learn how to rig your own boat, launch and recover it, and sail it competently. As you get more confident you will be able to start racing with club members in cup races.

Sailing is a great opportunity to meet people and make new friends in a safe and friendly environment. Even better, you can come with your friends and learn to sail together. Membership is currently free for those under the age of 25, so this is an excellent chance to learn to sail and join in with club events.

The RYA Stages 1-4 can also become part of schemes such as the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Take some time to look at the links on the left to the various Stages so that you can see what you will achieve on the courses, and the dates they are on.

Please note that the minimum age for a youth sailor to take part is 11 years old. However, feel free to contact the Club Chief Instructor to discuss your needs.

We look forward to you coming to see the club and its facilities. What Should You Bring Along To Your Sailing Course?

All the necessary equipment is provided for your sailing course including a wet suit, buoyancy aid, waterproof top and jacket. You will need to bring:

• Swim suit / shorts / board shorts to wear under a wet suit* and an old track suit (no jeans are allowed on the water)

• Rash vest and sailing gloves (if you have them)

• Footwear that can get wet (old trainers or sailing shoes are perfect) and footwear to go home in

• Warm hat and gloves for the cooler months / sun hat or cap for the summer months

• Tie for any glasses / sunglasses

• Towel and a change of warm clothing for when you are ashore

• Lunch for the day and any snacks you may like**

• Any log books and previous sailing qualifications if applicable

* If you are taking part in a keel boat course, a wet suit may not be required as you are less likely to fully enter the water

** Teas, coffees and access to fresh drinking water are always available. After your course, the club bar will be open to purchase any drinks and snacks with views over the river Thames